In our democracy, political hopefuls are open to scrutiny. Investigative reporters, historians and other seekers of truth look into the backgrounds of political candidates so that voters know what they are getting. As responsible citizens, it is up to us to analyze their findings. 

Graham Platner has won the imagination of voters. Portraying himself as a man of the people, his campaign literature and speeches promise that he will represent us all. One of his campaign letters lists some key points, including the question of funding “Netanyahu’s war.” Of all the horrible conflicts in the world, why this one in particular? Of all the bad leaders we hear about, why this one?

One of his social media posts shows an outraged Platner demanding that outside money be kept from Maine elections. “Billionaire-funded” PACs, like AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee), need to be eliminated, he claims. With all the thousands of PACs operating in Washington, why does this one bear mentioning?

Mr. Platner often refers to his personal history as a Marine veteran. The proud annals of our brave warriors recount that in World War II, nearly 25,000 of them died fighting the Nazis.  Platner attributes his tattoo of a Nazi Gestapo symbol to youthful indiscretion, saying he was ignorant of its significance until recently. He also claims to be a military historian. Analyze that.

Elaine Kahaner
Cape Elizabeth